Write about what you know – that’s a popular statement in the ‘list’; if you want to be a successful author. I suppose it’s a fair assertion because stories need to feel authentic and believable, so that the reader will easily relate and also invest in it and its characters. However, when dealing with fantasy, it’s my opinion that anything goes and, really, what does anybody ‘know’ of worlds other than our own or characters with special powers or the magic pen that animates its narrative or yet the stepping into another dimension; whether it be full of dinosaurs or flying towards that second star to the right? All these things (to mention a few) are purely from the imagination. Maybe fantasy has its own rules and yet, to date, I have not found any because if I come across a logistical problem or wonder ‘now is that believable enough?’ my imagination cunningly comes up with a plan, a route that allows the story to flow and bring a smile – and so far, I think it’s worked. It’s important not to let others decide what you want to write. If you fancy writing romance or murder mysteries or psychological thrillers etc. then go for it – though I would say that there are certain rules to these genres, and yet, if I decide on any other type apart from fantasy, I tend not to stick to a formula but rather see where the story takes me. Characters too can lead me – I would say never underestimate their power. It may surprise you where you end up. Again, fantasy allows me complete freedom and I love the unpredictable journey and delight in the mystery. To date I’ve written fantasy, horror, psychological thriller, murder mystery, humour, mystery adventure, contemporary short stories and non-fiction. I also write for children and adults, some dark, some light but always with meaning and I love to experiment – fantasy having no limits. I also write for me foremost since I must believe in my stories. Although I’m not sure if that’s right or wrong but I cannot work by any formula or keep in mind what is in fashion. I write in a variety of genres due to the fact that I like to challenge my writing and so not to be bored, but fantasy will always be my favourite. Is it, I wonder, because I don’t like rules? Maybe :) I think that writing will always be the last frontier, so try delving into a fantasy world of your own making – you’ll never want to come back.

About Julie Elizabeth Powell

Hello everyone. If you haven't guessed by now I have a passion for words and have twelve books published...all thanks to Lulu and Kindle, much hard work and sleepless nights.

My eldest daughter has flown the nest and is married to a man who doesn't mind his mother-in-law though my son is still fluffing his feathers.

My middle child is off on a mysterious adventure, the like of which I can only guess...and tried to do so in my first book, Gone.

I love to read and am looking for ways to double time so to indulge in the mysterious and wonderful and delicious and strange...my favourite kind of story.

Oh yes, I used to teach or mark exam papers but now concentrate on writing and enjoying my new life, which materialised, as if by a miracle. Though still dislike all those necessary domestic chores that would, for me, be included in the Rings of Hell!

That's it. Thank you to anyone who reads my books...enjoy the flight!My Books:

Great post, Julie! I agree fantasy does allow that extra bit of freedom, and stops the annoying naysayers who are always moaning about fiction being 'unrealistic' - give me a break - if you want 'real' go and read non-fiction. I also write in multiple genres as you know, and am leaning more towards the darker, fantasy/paranormal -- fun stuff! I love your fantasy tales! xx

Thanks for your comments, Maria - yes, I too seem to be leaning towards 'darker' things and I love fantasy - what a great mix :) I'm delighted you like my work! I particularly liked The Dream and Haunted of yours - yes, certainly darker, isn't it fab we can go anywhere our imaginations take us! Who needs reality? And anyway, who is to say what is real, we may all be living within someone else's fantasy...what a thought! I wish they'd give me a boost lol

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A Writer's Tale

Scarlett Van Dijk

Writer of young adult, fantasy series, the Sky Stone series, poetry and short stories.I hope to update this blog weekly with tips for writers and some personal stories. There will also be guest posts from fellow writers. Stay tuned!